Rep. Greg Vital

Maddy summaryHB 1168 modifies Tennessee's autonomous vehicle laws to require a licensed human driver for self-driving vehicles used commercially. Specifically, it removes an exemption allowing driverless operation for vehicles transporting property or passengers for hire in interstate commerce (like delivery trucks or ride-hailing services). The bill mandates that such vehicles must have a licensed driver physically present in the driver's seat, actively monitoring the vehicle and ready to take control, while still meeting other safety requirements. This change applies only to commercial autonomous vehicle operations and takes effect July 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 1738 designates the month of April each year as "Tennessee Native Plant Month" by amending Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 15, Chapter 2. This procedural bill does not create new regulations or funding but formally recognizes the ecological and economic value of native plants to Tennessee. It directly affects all Tennessee residents by highlighting the state's native flora, which supports agriculture, wildlife habitats, and sustainable ecosystems. The designation aims to increase public awareness about native plants' benefits without altering existing laws or policies.

Maddy summaryHJR 1002 is a ceremonial resolution recognizing Couch's BBQ in Ooltewah, Tennessee, for its 80 years of operation. It honors the restaurant's history since 1946, its family ownership (originally by Will and Agnes Couch, later by Kenny and Sarah Stiner), and its role as a community staple. The resolution specifically acknowledges current owner Sarah Stiner and the business's legacy as a regional culinary landmark. As a non-binding recognition resolution, it has no policy or funding impact.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HJR 968) is a formal memorial honoring Troy Wayne Poteete, a Cherokee Nation public servant who dedicated his life to preserving Cherokee history and culture. It recognizes his service as a Tribal Council member (1991-1999), Cherokee Nation Supreme Court Justice (2007), and founder of the National Trail of Tears Association. The resolution expresses the Tennessee General Assembly’s condolences to his family and commemorates his legacy of cultural stewardship and public service. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no binding policy impact or direct effect on any group or legislation.

Maddy summaryHJR 969 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Dr. Benjamin R. Wygal, a former educator and public servant who died recently. It expresses the Tennessee General Assembly's condolences to his family and commemorates his life, career, and community contributions, including his roles as a college president and university administrator. The resolution does not create new laws or policies; it simply serves as a formal tribute through a recorded expression of respect. It was passed by both chambers and sent to the governor for formal acknowledgment.

Maddy summaryHJR 875 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Michael Aaron Butler for 30 years of service as CEO of the Tennessee Wildlife Federation. It recognizes his leadership in conservation programs like the Scholastic Clay Target Program and his role in advancing Tennessee's constitutional right to hunt and fish. This resolution does not create new laws or policies - it is purely a symbolic tribute to his contributions to wildlife conservation in Tennessee.

Maddy summaryHJR 865 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Carl Edward Tallant, a longtime Ooltewah, Tennessee resident and pharmacist who passed away in 2025. The resolution commemorates his life, community service, family, and contributions to the Ooltewah and Collegedale areas. It contains no policy changes or legislative effects - it is purely a symbolic tribute approved by the Tennessee General Assembly to express condolences and recognize his legacy.

Maddy summaryHouse Joint Resolution 866 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Greer Tidwell for his retirement as Deputy Commissioner of Tennessee’s Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC). It recognizes his leadership in expanding Tennessee State Parks (adding 14 new parks), advancing accessibility in public lands, and supporting conservation efforts across the state. This resolution has no policy impact - it serves solely to publicly commend his service and legacy.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors the Tennessee Wildlife Federation's 80th anniversary, recognizing its work since 1946 in conserving wildlife, protecting outdoor access, and promoting hunting/fishing heritage. It highlights the organization's programs like Hunters for the Hungry (donating venison to food banks) and youth initiatives such as the Scholastic Clay Target Program. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no policy impact and serves solely as a formal tribute.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HJR 876) is a ceremonial memorial honoring Sherry Lee Howard Hoppe, a retired educator and college administrator who served as president of multiple Tennessee community colleges. It does not create new laws or policies - it solely commemorates her life, career, and legacy through a formal legislative expression of respect. The resolution highlights her work in education, her authorship of books on grief and faith, and her family. It was passed unanimously by both chambers and signed by the Governor as a symbolic tribute.